The scenario places an imperial-minded First Sea Lord beside a minister less committed to empire and determined to control defence spending. Fisher would initially resist reform, then recognize the new staff as a means of influencing government policy more effectively. Lloyd George would still want Britain to retain its international position. His scrutiny would focus on whether fleet reductions weakened presence and interrupted the flow of trade. That interest in what Britain could do with control of the sea suggests a productive relationship with Julian Corbett after initial disagreements. HMS Dreadnought would still be built as she was, while subsequent orders would face different questions about their purpose.
Chapter · 34:05-37:59
Fisher and Lloyd George collide over naval reform
Fisher could embrace the new staff as a route to influence, while Lloyd George would test naval spending against trade, presence, and economic security.